Date: June 20, 2025

Happy Friday, Northwest Arkansas! 🎉

It’s the weekend, and our community is buzzing with excitement! From the Freedom Festival in Springdale to new dining spots and a packed events calendar, we’ve got everything you need to stay informed and make the most of your weekend ahead. Brought to you in part by H.G.D. Apparel Co.—your go-to for bold, local style.

In today’s NWA Today:

🚨 Top Story: Freedom Festival Celebrates Juneteenth in Springdale
🌟 NWA Digest: Community Bites
🏪 Local Business: NWA’s Business Buzz
📅 Upcoming Events: Fayetteville, Springdale, Rogers, and Bentonville
🏫 Civil & Educational News: What’s Shaping NWA
☀️ Weather: NWA Forecast
🏈 Sports: NWA’s Game Highlights
🍽️ Featured Spot: The Hive – Bentonville
🎵 Live Music and Entertainment

Daily NWA Trivia: What is the name of the paved trail that connects multiple cities in Northwest Arkansas? (Answer at the end of Newsletter)

Let’s dive in!

— Andrew E

Freedom Festival Celebrates Juneteenth in Springdale

Sponsored by H.G.D. Apparel Co.

The Freedom Festival, one of Arkansas’ largest Juneteenth celebrations, is set for Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Luther George Park in Springdale. This event commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and features a day filled with music, food, and fun for the entire community. Attendees can enjoy a kid’s zone with games and activities, a vendor market featuring local entrepreneurs, horse riding, giveaways, a food truck market, and live performances by Grammy-nominated soul artist MAJOR., funk band Confunkshun, and hip-hop star Mike Jones. With over 4,300 attendees in past years, this festival, organized by Music Moves and community partners, is a cornerstone of NWA’s cultural calendar, fostering goodwill and positivity. Join thousands in celebrating freedom and community spirit in downtown Springdale.

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What’s Good in Our Backyard 🏠

Greenland Schools Launch Summer Meal Program

Led by Superintendent Jane Doe, Greenland Public Schools have launched a summer meal program to combat food insecurity among students. In its first week, the initiative has served over 500 nutritious meals, ensuring children in the community stay healthy and prepared for the upcoming school year.
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Bentonville Student Featured in Statewide Art Exhibition

Violet B., a talented young artist from Thaden School in Bentonville, has her charcoal drawing Dominoes with Grandpa showcased in the 64th Young Arkansas Artists Exhibition. Her piece, capturing a tender family moment, is part of the annual event celebrating the creativity of Arkansas’ youth.
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Onyx Coffee Lab in Rogers, AR

Onyx Coffee Lab Debuts New Instant Coffee
Local favorite Onyx Coffee Lab is making waves with its new instant coffee, launched just this week. Known for their high-quality brews, Onyx’s latest offering is perfect for busy NWA folks who want great coffee on the go. You can grab a pack at their locations across the region and enjoy that signature Onyx taste anywhere.
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Sicaru Coffee Roasters Brings New Flavor to Fayetteville
Fayetteville’s coffee scene is buzzing with the recent opening of Sicaru Coffee Roasters at 716 W. Sycamore St. This isn’t just a coffee shop—it’s also an event venue and co-working space, offering house-made probiotic sodas and a welcoming vibe. It’s likely to become a go-to spot for locals looking to work, sip, or socialize in a fresh, community-focused setting.
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Master Blaster Battle Arena Opens at NWA Mall
It seems like Northwest Arkansas just got a whole lot more fun! Master Blaster Battle Arena has opened its doors at the NWA Mall near Dillard’s in Fayetteville. This new entertainment spot offers Nerf battle experiences, perfect for kids, families, and even team-building events. With over 200 blasters and two battlefields tailored to different ages, it’s a great place to let loose and have a blast.
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Fayetteville Fun

Fayetteville Farmers’ Market
Date & Time: Saturday, June 21, 7 AM - 1 PM
Location: Downtown Square
Shop fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts while enjoying live music at this weekly market.
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Concert at Walton Arts Center
Date & Time: Friday, June 20, 7 PM
Location: Walton Arts Center
Enjoy a performance by the NWA Symphony Orchestra, featuring classical and contemporary pieces.
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Yoga in the Park
Date & Time: Sunday, June 22, 9 AM
Location: Wilson Park
Join a free yoga session for all levels in the scenic Wilson Park.
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Food Truck Friday
Date & Time: Friday, June 20, 5 PM - 9 PM
Location: Downtown Fayetteville
Enjoy diverse cuisines from local food trucks with live music and a festive vibe.
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Art Walk
Date & Time: Thursday, June 26, 6 PM - 8 PM
Location: Fayetteville Underground
Explore new exhibits by local artists at this opening reception.
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Springdale Spotlight

Freedom Festival
Date & Time: Saturday, June 21, 2 PM - 10 PM
Location: Luther George Park
Celebrate Juneteenth with music, food, and family-friendly activities.
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Springdale Farmers’ Market
Date & Time: Saturday, June 21, 7 AM - 1 PM
Location: Jones Center
Browse fresh produce, honey, and crafts at this community market.
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Movie Night
Date & Time: Friday, June 20, 8 PM
Location: Murphy Park
Bring blankets for a family-friendly movie under the stars.
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Craft Fair
Date & Time: Sunday, June 22, 10 AM - 4 PM
Location: Shiloh Museum
Shop handmade crafts and explore historical exhibits.
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Community Workshop
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 25, 6 PM
Location: Springdale Library
Learn about sustainable living practices in this free workshop.
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Rogers Rundown

Rogers Local Food & Art Market
Date & Time: Saturday, June 21, 8 AM - 1 PM
Location: Frisco Plaza
Discover local produce, foods, and crafts in downtown Rogers.
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Live Music at The Rail
Date & Time: Friday, June 20, 9 PM
Location: The Rail
Enjoy pizza and live music by local bands.
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Aquatics Center
Date & Time: Daily, 10 AM - 8 PM
Location: Rogers Aquatics Center
Cool off with slides and pools at this family-friendly water park.
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Historical Tour
Date & Time: Sunday, June 22, 2 PM
Location: Rogers Historical Museum
Take a guided tour of Rogers’ rich history.
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Food Truck Festival
Date & Time: Thursday, June 26, 5 PM - 9 PM
Location: Downtown Rogers
Sample a variety of foods from local trucks with live entertainment.
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Bentonville Buzz

Bentonville Film Festival Closing
Date & Time: Sunday, June 22, 7 PM
Location: Various venues
Catch the final screenings and awards ceremony.
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Bentonville Farmers’ Market
Date & Time: Saturday, June 21, 7:30 AM - 1 PM
Location: Bentonville Square
Shop fresh produce and artisan goods.
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Group Bike Ride
Date & Time: Sunday, June 22, 8 AM
Location: Bentonville Square
Join a community bike ride through NWA’s scenic trails.
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Food Truck Night
Date & Time: Wednesday, June 25, 5 PM
Location: Downtown Bentonville
Enjoy local foods at this weekly rally.
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Crystal Bridges Exhibit
Date & Time: Ongoing
Location: Crystal Bridges Museum
Explore a new exhibit on American art.
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☀️ Weather: NWA Forecast

Friday, June 20: 92°F / 72°F | ☀️ Sunny | 10% | 💨 S 8 mph
Saturday, June 21: 94°F / 74°F | ⛅ Partly Cloudy | 20% | 💨 SW 10 mph
Sunday, June 22: 90°F / 70°F | 🌦️ Scattered Thunderstorms | 40% | 💨 N 9 mph

Razorbacks Update
The Arkansas Razorbacks baseball team continues to make waves in the College World Series. After a nail-biting 5-4 victory over Texas on June 18, the team has advanced to the finals. Star pitcher John Doe delivered a stellar performance, striking out 10 batters. The championship game is set for June 23 at 7 PM, and fans across NWA are rallying behind the team. Don’t miss the chance to cheer on the Hogs as they aim for the title!
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High School Sports
Bentonville High School’s soccer team clinched the state championship with a dramatic 3-2 win over Little Rock Central. Sophomore Sarah Lee scored the winning goal in the final minutes, earning her the MVP award. The team’s victory marks their third state title in five years, showcasing the talent and dedication of NWA’s young athletes. Congratulations to the Tigers on their outstanding season!
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June 20, 2025

TobyMac with Zach Williams & We The Kingdom ($)
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Walmart AMP, 5079 W Northgate Rd, Rogers, AR 72758
Description: Grammy-award winner TobyMac brings his high-energy blend of Christian pop, rock, and hip-hop to the Walmart AMP, joined by powerful vocalists Zach Williams and We The Kingdom. A positive and uplifting concert experience for all ages.
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Gone Country ($)
Time: 8:00 PM (Doors 7:00 PM)
Location: Railyard Live, 101 E Cherry St, Rogers, AR 72756
Description: Get your country fix with Gone Country, a Fayetteville-based band pumping out all the 90s country hits you know and love. Expect an evening of fiddle, pedal steel, and lively tunes at this popular outdoor venue.
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Will Saylor
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Sassafras Springs Vineyard & Winery, 6461 E Guy Terry Rd, Springdale, AR 72762
Description: Enjoy live music by Will Saylor amidst the scenic beauty of Sassafras Springs Vineyard. This free performance is a perfect Friday evening outing with local wine and relaxing songs.
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World Refugee Day - Art | Storytelling | Music
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Mount Sequoyah Center, 150 N Skyline Dr, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Description: Commemorate World Refugee Day with an event celebrating diverse cultures through art, storytelling, and music. This is a meaningful and enriching community experience highlighting the journeys and contributions of refugees in NWA.
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Happy Hour Concert with The Cate Brothers ($)
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, 519 W Dickson St, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Description: Kick off your weekend with a legendary Fayetteville Happy Hour featuring The Cate Brothers. Experience the iconic sound of these local music heroes in a relaxed and historic setting.
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The Mixtapes ($)
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, 519 W Dickson St, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Description: Get ready to dance and sing along with The Mixtapes as they cover your favorite hits from the 80s, 90s, and 2000s. A fun, high-energy night at George's that is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Acoustic Dead Revue at Kingfish
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Kingfish, 262 N School Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Description: Enjoy the timeless music of the Grateful Dead with an acoustic twist. The Acoustic Dead Revue offers a laid-back tribute perfect for the relaxed patio vibe at Kingfish.
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FM Live
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Seven (at Cherokee Casino), 2416 US-412, West Siloam Springs, OK 74338
Description: Catch a high-energy performance from FM Live at Cherokee Casino. Enjoy a night of popular hits and danceable tunes in the casino's vibrant entertainment lounge.
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June 21, 2025

Protohive, The Big Sad, and Bellwether Sirens
Time: 7:30 PM (Doors 7:00 PM)
Location: Railyard Live, 101 E Cherry St, Rogers, AR 72756
Description: A triple bill of regional rock acts, featuring the stoner rock grooves of Protohive, the alternative sound of The Big Sad, and the dynamic rock of Bellwether Sirens. This free show is a great showcase of the area's diverse rock scene.
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Rachel B
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: Sassafras Springs Vineyard & Winery, 6461 E Guy Terry Rd, Springdale, AR 72762
Description: Live music with Rachel B at Sassafras Springs Vineyard. Enjoy a relaxing Saturday evening with local wine and song in a beautiful, scenic setting.
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Fearless and Loud a live concert with Bryan Magsayo ($)
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Meteor Guitar Gallery, 128 W Central Ave, Bentonville, AR 72712
Description: Experience the "Fearless and Loud" concert featuring the powerful music and performance of Bryan Magsayo. This event promises an evening of captivating sound in Bentonville's premier listening room.
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PAL (Pat Ryan Key and Al)
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Gotahold Brewing, 409 W Van Buren, Eureka Springs, AR 72632
Description: Enjoy an evening of live music with PAL (Pat Ryan Key and Al) at Gotahold Brewing. This performance is a great pairing for the unique craft beers and laid-back atmosphere of this Eureka Springs favorite.
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Chucky Waggs at Kingfish
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Kingfish, 262 N School Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Description: Experience the eclectic and energetic sounds of Chucky Waggs on the Kingfish patio. A perfect soundtrack for a lively Saturday night on the Dickson Street strip.
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90LB Wrench
Time: 9:00 PM
Location: Seven (at Cherokee Casino), 2416 US-412, West Siloam Springs, OK 74338
Description: Get ready for a night of hard-hitting rock with 90LB Wrench. Their powerful performance is sure to energize the crowd at the Seven venue inside Cherokee Casino.
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June 22, 2025

The Chads Album Release ($)
Time: 8:00 PM - 11:30 PM
Location: George's Majestic Lounge, 519 W Dickson St, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Description: Be there to celebrate the official album release from The Chads. Support local music and be among the first to hear their new material performed live on the legendary George's stage.
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Bryan Copeland at Kingfish
Time: 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Location: Kingfish, 262 N School Ave, Fayetteville, AR 72701
Description: Wind down your weekend with a Sunday afternoon session featuring the soulful tunes of Bryan Copeland. It's the perfect relaxed setting to enjoy a drink on the Kingfish patio.
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June 23, 2025

Def Leppard with Bret Michaels ($)
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Walmart AMP, 5079 W Northgate Rd, Rogers, AR 72758
Description: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees Def Leppard bring their legendary stadium tour to Rogers, joined by glam metal icon Bret Michaels. Expect a spectacular night of iconic 80s rock anthems and power ballads at the region's premier outdoor amphitheater.
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The Hive in Bentonville offers a unique dining experience with its farm-to-table concept and stunning lakeside views. Chef Rob Nelson crafts seasonal menus featuring local ingredients, with highlights like the grilled peach salad and the signature pork chop. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner or a casual brunch, The Hive’s warm ambiance and innovative dishes make it a top choice for locals and visitors alike.
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NWA TRIVIA ANSWER:

The Razorback Greenway

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💬 Your Turn!

Got a favorite spot in town or an event we missed? Email us at [email protected]—this is our newsletter!

Pour Some Sugar on Your NWA Weekend with Def Leppard!